The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe is calling on the public to report to them if they used Isotretinoin and Thalidomide which are specially restricted preparations dangerous enough to cause mental health disorders in children.
These drugs are often bought after being prescribed by dermatologists, skin diseases experts.
MCAZ Chief Regulation Officer – Enforcement Mrs Caroline Dandira-Samatanga in a statement noted they learned these medical products were widely on sale to the public despite the drugs being prescription drugs.
The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) is mandated to protect public health by enforcing the Medicines and Allied Substances Control Act (MASCA) and relevant regulations. The Authority notes with concern increasing reports concerning buying and selling of Specially Restricted Preparations particularly Isotretinoin and Thalidomide,” she said.
She noted both drugs were dangerous if used by women of child bearing age with the effects being even fatal to the babies.
“Isotretinoin and Thalidomide formulations have teratogenic effects when taken by women of childbearing age. A teratogen causes foetal abnormalities resulting in birth defects including death. Isotretinoin has major effects such as learning disabilities, psychomotor and mental retardation in children exposed prenatally,” Mrs Dandira-Samatanga added.
Thalidomide, according to Mrs Dandira-Samatanga was used as a remedy for morning sickness between 1957 and 1961 but adversely resulted in shortening of proximal limbs in born children.
“Other effects included damage to the face, genitalia and internal organs including heart and kidney. Due to these severe adverse effects both medicines may only be prescribed by specialist practitioners, stored and dispensed from pharmacy departments of central hospitals or other facilities duly authorised to do so by the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe.
“The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) is strongly advising members of the public against buying and selling of Isotretinoin and Thalidomide without first consulting a specialist dermatologist or oncologist respectively. If a member of the public procured any of the two medicines without consulting a specialist dermatologist or oncologist, you are required to report to the Authority for assistance as you may be at risk,” she said.
